Saint Patrick's Day is a wonderful occasion to show our husbands how much we care. It is a fun time as well to dote on them and we at The (real) Stepford Wives Association always feel that is a good thing.
Why is Irish Soda Bread only made once a year? In Ireland it is a daily bread. It is easy to prepare, requires no kneading and can be dressed up or down with ease. Traditionally, it should only have flour, baking soda, buttermilk, and salt. What can be more simple? Brown or whole wheat flour can easily be substituted. You can add a bit of honey, or sugar or just about anything else.
Of course and quite naturally the star of your Saint Patrick's table should be corned beef and cabbage. Don't forget to add some beer to the water. It add a special zip we are sure your husband will appreciate. Corned beef is beef that has been brined, so give it a quick rinse under cold water.
With additions of beer and spices it is fool-proof dish. Allow it to boil and you can finish it (to brown the edges) in the oven for a few minutes more.
We like chunks of cabbage, so we try to cook it in the pot in halves, leaving the core intact until serving when its more easily removed and it makes for a nicer appearance.
